by Sharon Falsetto

Created on: July 10, 2008   Last Updated: January 06, 2009

Using aromatherapy for weddings

Weddings are thought to be one of the greatest occasions of a woman's life. Hence, they can also become one of the most stressful events! From finding the perfect dress, to catering for 100's of people, not to mention where to place Great Aunt Jennie to avoid any further family upsets Weddings can fast turn from a dream affair to your worst nightmare if things start to spin out of control! Using aromatherapy may help in more ways than one, as well as providing a creative way to personalise your own unique wedding.

Traditional Flowers

Flowers have a long history of being associated with the language of love'. In Victorian England, different flowers had different meanings between lovers, a secret code between two people.

Various herbs and flowers were used in traditional marriage ceremonies. Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) has been used as an ingredient in love potions, as has marjoram (origanum marjorana) and, of course, the rose (rosa x damascena), the quintessential classic of flowers. It is still one of the most popular choices for today's bride.

Rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) was once entwined in the bridal crown of Greek brides, as was marjoram (origanum marjorana). Ivy (hedera helix) was given to Roman bridal couples during the ceremony and they also used marjoram (origanum marjorana) in bridal crowns.

Some countries still carry out certain traditions today with wedding flowers. In England, flower girls' are still common in traditional weddings. The tradition of a flower girl is that she would precede the bride down the pathway to the church, scattering flower blossoms as she went, so that the bride would enjoy a lifetime of happiness and flowers. Although many people may not know the origins of the flower girl, they are still seen at English weddings today. In India, a similar role is played by the groom's brother, scattering flower petals over the bridal couple at the end of the ceremony to supposedly ward off any evil spirits.

Sensory Perception

However, it is not just the beauty and the colors of flowers that should be recognized; scent should be recognized too.

Smell plays a greater part in our sensory perception of the universe than we realize. Smell is the only sense which has a direct link to the brain. Scientists believe that olfaction can influence our moods, thoughts and sexual behaviour. Thus, using aromatherapy in your wedding may have a greater impact on your day than you may have thought!

An aromatic history

As

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>